Huge Windows Make This Modern Home Feel Like a Bright, Art-Filled Treehouse
Name: Lily Alayeva, husband, and 3-year-old son
Location: Irvington, New York
Size: 2400 square feet
Years lived in: 6 months, owned
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We lived six houses down, in a small 130-year-old Colonial and were running out of space. This house came on the market, and we just fell in love with it. It had everything we wanted: space, light, and an open floor plan. Most importantly, it was in the village that we have come to call home. My husband volunteers for the fire department, and we have become close with our neighbors and the community here. A short walk to the train and a 40-minute train ride brings us right into Grand Central Station, so on most nights, we can have dinner as a family. When we moved, we had a whole plan about how to transition our 3-year-old to his new home (which was still on the same block as his previous house). We were worried he would be homesick and confused. But as soon as he stepped into the house, he felt at home. There was space for all of us to breathe. The tall ceilings and natural light make it seem even bigger. The house has very quickly started to feel like home, but at the same time, after six months, it still feels like a vacation.
What is your favorite room and why? Our favorite room is the central living room. It is purely for music, conversations, and the fireplace. There is also a display of many of the items that we have collected through the years. The room is ideally situated so that while sitting there, you can see the whole floor. It is perfect for having friends and family over.
Describe your home’s style in 5 words or less: Modern, bright art-filled treehouse
If you could magically change something about your home, what would it be? We would love to add a better outdoor living area. Perhaps a a screened-in porch downstairs or a larger patio.
What’s the last thing you bought (or found!) for your home? We learned a new word when trying to furnish our home: settees…as well as how to pronounce it. We purchased two of them! We were looking for seating that looked lighter then a couch, but was just as comfortable.
Any advice for creating a home you love? Display things you find interesting even if it may be a little unusual. We have put up artwork on any wall space we could find. As soon as the art went up, it felt like home. Objects that we find interesting are on all of the shelves. Even though most of these don’t change, you can notice something new every time you look.
